An important
milestones in the history of the city began in 2008 with the implementation of
pacifying police units in several favelas across Rio de Janeiro: these forces
significantly reduced levels of crime making the city much safer for living,
visiting and conducting business, stimulating a new period of growth and
development and highlighting Rio's new and prestigious role on the world's
stage.
Rio de Janeiro's culture is marked by its indigenous beginnings,
the legacy of colonization, important influences from a wide array
of international cultures, and the geographical positioning of the
city - its port, mountains and beaches. The city's unique history
has sculpted it into a truly organic entity and an living playground
of cultures and ideas.